deadlines for firms work much the same as law schools - they consider resumes as they come in. While they may continue accepting resumes and "considering them" up until February, I'd bet that they've hired any 1Ls they're planning to take well before then (but may make an exception for a late applicant with a connection at the firm or a stellar resume).

Also, Cincinnati isn't exactly at the top of the list for major national markets - the regional markets may well hire later than the more major markets like NY, DC, LA, Chicago, etc.

The first week of January is probably not too late. It really depends on where you are applying and in what market. Also, 80% of law students probably have no interest in working in a MAJOR NATIONAL MARKET,so if you are in that 80%, don't pay attention to 90% of the comments on this board because they are mostly geared towards people who are gunning for those jobs...